User-specific dispensing system

ABSTRACT

The invention provides a system to physically dispense an item, including tangible items and/or services or features, on-site from a dispenser whereby the item to be dispensed is selected by the system based on user-specific or item-specific information. In an embodiment, the system selects the dispensed item based on both user-specific and item-specific information. In another embodiment the invention comprises a system that activates gaming features in a gaming device based on user-specific information. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a system incorporated into an interactive amusement system to activate features of a playfield based on user-specific information.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/200,048, filed Jul. 1, 2016.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/280,157 filed on Nov. 16, 2005.

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/280,157 is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/990,595 filed on Nov. 17, 2004, nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,398,921.

Each of the above applications is hereby incorporated by reference inits entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates in general to systems and methods for on-site,automated dispensing of items to users based on user-specificinformation. The system and methods can also be applied to gamingdevices and interactive amusement playfields in which a special featureis actuated and/or an item is dispensed based on user-specificinformation.

2. Description of the Prior Art

In general, the retail market continues to become more competitive.There are an increasing number of options for consumers in terms ofwhere to shop and which items to purchase. At the same time, providingtargeted samples to consumers is an effective method of marketing.Therefore, there exists a powerful need to direct consumers intoappropriate store locations and/or to direct samples of products intothe hands of a targeted consumer.

While promotional methods have existed for ages, e.g., sales coupons,targeted discounts, free items with purchase, no system or method hasattempted an automated approach to targeted on-site sampling. To do sowould require (1) pre-knowledge of the targeted consumer, also referredto as the “user” of the system, and (2) the actual dispensation ofsamples to said user based on that pre-knowledge. Such a system woulddiffer from one that issues a coupon or other redeemable, such as atoken, to a user based on user-specific information, in that said systemwould actually physically dispense the item to the user on-site, therebyremoving the necessity of a redemption step.

Such a system would provide a novel method and system to provideautomated, on-site sampling based on user-specific information. Thesystem and method could incorporate RFID, bar code, or any other readertechnology into an automated system that can be kept and maintained on atarget site or maintained from a central site. Reader systems such asRFID tags, bar codes, and other conventional data reading methods areincorporated into a variety of devices ranging from monitoring systemsto gaming devices. One example would be a grocery store chain issuingdiscounts to holders of a preferred customer card. The card may haveinformation on it that is readable by a bar code reader. The systemidentifies the user by the information contained on the card and issuesa discount, or tracks the consumers purchase history, and issues couponsbased on said history. Another example is Bam et al.'s U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/691,459 (Publication No. US 2004/0128197), whichdiscloses an electronic promotion system that sends coupons to targetedconsumers, the coupons tailored to the specific consumer's profile. Theconsumer then may redeem said coupons at some future time.

Another example of the prior art is Meyer's U.S. patent application Ser.No. 10/245,149 (Publication No. US 2003/0061098 A1), which discloses asystem that encourages consumers to patronize a particular business byawarding a prize or a discount to randomly selected consumers. But thesystem disclosed in Meyer's patent application does not physicallydispense a sample. Another drawback of this system is that an itemprovided may not meet the needs or desires of the actual user becausethe item provided is not customized to that user's individualcharacteristics or preferences. Such a system is not necessarily basedon user-specific information but rather simply rewards consumers thathave a card.

Thus, there is a need for a system that both physically provides theitem on-site from the dispenser unit itself and one that dispenses anitem that is user-specific based on the particular user'scharacteristics.

SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

In general, the dispensing system of the present invention comprises auser-identifier, such as an RFID tag or a bar code, containinginformation associated with a user. The system also comprises a readerthat is capable of reading the user-identifier. The system has aprocessor that is capable of executing instructions to actuatedispensing means that in turn dispenses an item or sample to the user.In this way, the system is designed to dispense an item that isappropriate for the user based on user-specific information.

In an alternate embodiment, the system is capable of conveyinginformation associated with the items. In this alternate embodiment, theprocessor is capable of instructing an actuator to dispense items basedon item-specific information. Item-specific information includes, but isnot limited to, the number of items dispensed from at least one storagecompartment or the weight of items remaining in at least one storagecompartment.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a system incorporatedinto a gaming device. Instead of or in addition to dispensing a sample,the system will actuate at least one gaming feature based on theinformation associated with the identified user. This embodiment isdesigned to actuate a gaming feature that is appropriate for the userbased on the user-specific information or to provide free or extendedplay to the user based on user-specific information.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a system incorporatedinto stations located throughout an interactive playfield. In thisembodiment, the dispensing system may dispense items or information, ormay activate or inactivate a feature of the playfield, based on theinformation on the user-identifier to facilitate play in the interactiveamusement system.

All embodiments may be optimally coupled with any device that dispensesa service or item in exchange for currency or other monetary means, suchas a credit card.

It is therefore an object in an example of the present invention toprovide a system to physically dispense a sample item on-site to a userbased on user-specific information.

It is a further object in an example of the present invention to providea system that physically dispenses an item on-site to a user based oninformation related to the items remaining in the system.

It is also an object in an example of the invention to provide a gamingsystem that activates gaming features based on user-specificinformation.

It is a further object in an example of the invention to provide asystem that activates features within an existing gaming machine basedon user-specific information.

It is still a further object in an example of the invention to providetargeted automated sampling of items.

It is another object in an example of the invention to provide a systemto encourage consumer traffic to a location by dispensing items based onuser-specific information.

In another example, it is an object of the invention to provide aninteractive amusement system that activates or inactivates features onthe playfield based on user-specific information.

It is yet a further object in an example of the invention to provide aninteractive amusement system that activates or inactivates features onthe playfield based on information contained on the user-identifier.

In another example, it is another object of the present invention toprovide an interactive amusement system that dispenses items that may beused immediately and/or in the future to facilitate play in theamusement system.

Other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present inventionwill become better understood or apparent from the following detaileddescription, drawings, and appended claims of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic depiction of the user-specific dispensing systemin an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic of another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is depiction of one embodiment of the invention incorporated intoa gaming device.

FIG. 4 is an example of an embodiment of the invention incorporated intoan interactive amusement system where the playfield is a maze.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are examples of embodiments of the invention incorporatedinto an interactive amusement system where the playfield is a multilevelplayground.

FIG. 7 is an example of an embodiment of the invention incorporated intoan interactive amusement system where the playfield is an outdoorsimulation area.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 shows a schematic depiction of an embodiment of the process andsystem for on-site dispensing of items or samples based on user-specificinformation. In this embodiment, the system is schematically representedas a vending-type machine dispensing items to a user, where the item isfor examples a physical item such as a product, sample, game feature, orother object, or an intangible item such as a service, a game feature,or a multimedia experience. Where the item is a physical sample, it maybe any shape, such as for examples spherical or cylindrical. The skilledartisan will appreciate, of course, that there are a multitude of typesof vending machines, many of which have differing mechanical orelectrical configurations and capabilities. Thus, this embodiment of theinvention is in no way limited to vending-type machines represented inthis schematic. The skilled artisan will also appreciate, of course,that the dispensed items need not be cylindrical or be limited to anyshape. The items could be intangible, such as a music clip. Thus, anitem can be a physical sample or a service. Another example of an itemas a service would be the system dispensing multi-media clip, a shoeshine, a car wash, or the use of a locker in a gym facility. In anotherexample where the item is a service, service can include entertainmentthat the user observes and/or participates in. Some of the otherapplications of the invention will become apparent from the schematicfigures discussed below.

As shown in FIG. 1, a user 100 receives a user identifier 200. That stepis represented as 1000. The way in which a user receives a card varies,but an example would be as follows: A vendor stationed at an event, forexample, a sporting event, would solicit interested consumers and wouldgather information from the interested consumers. Such information couldinclude the consumer's age, gender, sporting team or apparelpreferences, location of residence, and any other such informationselected or designated by the vendor. The vendor would issue the user acard that could be used with the system. In this example, the card wouldbe a user-identifier 200. Skilled artisans will appreciate that theuser-identifier 200 need not be a card, for example, the user-identifier200 could be any physical holder of information and need not be limitedto any size or shape. Further, the user-identifier 200 could be anyinformation that is specific to a user 100, which is inputted into thesystem, for example, the user 100 could enter the user's phone numberinto the system. Still further, the issuer of the user-identifier 200need not necessarily be a vendor as is currently understood by theordinary and accustomed meaning of “vendor.” The user-identifier 200comprises readable information that is specific to or is associated withthe user. The readable information may be updated at least once orperiodically by the user or the issuer, by the user's usage history, orbased on a survey or questionnaire answered by the user subsequent touse of the user-identifier. As stated above, said user-specificinformation may include gender, name, address, age, athletic preference,food preferences, music preferences, etc. FIG. 1 schematicallyrepresents such preferences as 210, 220, and 230. User-specificinformation 210, 220, and 230 on the user-identifier 200 may be in theform of a bar code or RFID information, but is not limited as such.User-specific information also includes information that a user issimply authorized to receive a sample. Therefore, information on auser-identifier that instructs the system to simply dispense an item isuser-specific information.

Another step of the invention is represented by 2000. In this step, theuser 100 presents the user-identifier 200 to the system. The systemcomprises a reader 300 capable of reading the coded information off ofthe user-identifier 200. In one example of an embodiment, the reader 300is an RFID reader capable of reading data on a card that corresponds tothe user's 100 age 210, gender 220, and soft drink preference 230. Thereader 300 sends the user-specific data to a processor, the step beingrepresented by 3000. In step 4000, the processor 400 is capable ofprocessing the inputted user-specific data in order to instruct thesystem to dispense an item to a user, that item being selected basedupon the user-specific data. The step of dispensing is represented by5000. FIG. 1 depicts the item being dispensed as 508.

In some of the embodiments of the invention where the instructions aresoftware, the software contains coded instructions, which translate theuser-specific data into mechanical action of the system, specifically,mechanical actions of the dispensing means 501, 503, 505, 507, or 509.Software can also log the activities in a file. The software canvalidate whether the user-identifier 200 is authorized for activity. Itcan determine, for example, whether the user history warrants an item tobe dispensed. The software can determine which type of item will bedispensed and log a tag number along with a time stamp and activity typeto a file. A control code tag is able to retrieve the file and reset thesystem. Skilled artisans will appreciate that the invention is notlimited or dependent upon any type of computer system, operatingenvironment, architecture, or required to have a conventional computerto operate. In other embodiments of the invention, it is possible toreduce the software routine to a dedicated chip, and remove the typicalcomputer components from the invention completely.

The step of the reader 300 being provided with the user-specificinformation 210, 220, and 230 of the user-identifier 200 to theprocessor 400 is represented by 3000. Once the processor accepts theuser-specific data 210, 220, and 230, it executes an instruction toactuate a dispensing means 500, 502, 504, 506, 508 based on setinstructions.

In this embodiment, the system has at least one or optionally multiplecompartments 600, 602, 604, 606 and 608, each of which stores aplurality of items to dispense. One such item is represented as 508. Asdescribed above, the item may be any type of item, including forexamples a physical sample, a service, or a gaming feature, so long asthe item is dispensed based upon user-specific data. However, presentlysuch items may include toys, prizes, candy, soda, athletic gear, towels,etc. In the example shown in FIG. 1, each item is schematicallyrepresented, and each item is stored in its respective storagecompartments 600, 602, 604, 606, and 608. In the preferred embodiment,the items meet a pre-selected set of characteristics appropriate for auser. That is, for example, if the user-specific information includessoda or candy preference, a soda or a candy item would be dispensed thatcorresponds to the preference.

Related to this aspect of the invention, other embodiments of theinvention comprise dispensing an item based on whether the user 100meets the pre-selected criteria selected by an entity wishing to promotecertain goods. For example, the system could be located in a retail areasuch as a grocery store. The system may contain samples of itemstypically found in the store such as after-shave, samples of askin-toning product, and samples of vitamin supplements respectively.The pre-selected criteria may define that (1) males under forty fiveyears of age are to receive after-shave samples; (2) females underforty-five years of age are to receive samples of the skin toningproduct; and that (3) all individuals over forty-five years of age willreceive the sample of vitamin supplements. A twenty-nine year old malepresenting his user-identifier to the system will cause the system todispense to him a sample of after shave. In this way, the invention canprovide for focused automated sampling, which is an important marketingtool. By providing the user 100 with a customized item the invention canalso drive consumer traffic to a location, which in this example is agrocery store. In this embodiment, the steps of presenting 2000 the useridentifier, reading the user-specific information 3000, and processing4000 are the same as described above.

Dispensing 5000 is another aspect of the invention. The skilled artisanwill appreciate that any conventional dispensing means can be used.Since the invention is not limited to any particular mechanical orelectrical specifications, the dispensing means will depend largely onthe type of unit the system is embodied within. In one embodiment, thedispensing means is a flange that is activated by a solenoid. The readerreads information contained on the user-identifier and sends theinformation to the processor, which processes instructions to send anelectrical signal to the solenoid. This electrical signal charges a coilin the solenoid, which in turn pushes a rod mechanism in the solenoid toopen the flange to dispense an item from the respective storagecompartment 600, 602, 604, 606, 608, for example into a dispensing chute800, out of the opening 810, and on to the user 100. Alternateembodiments will use shooting solenoids to drive the sample into adispensing chute ultimately accessible by the user.

In an embodiment, machines or devices incorporated into theuser-identifier 200 and dispensing system can be activated in series toencourage users to visit different retail locations, or to experiencedifferent gaming machines. For examples, there may be a different videogame that is highlighted each day in an arcade, or a different slotmachine that is highlighted each day in a casino, and the machine thenreads the user-identifier 200 presented by user 100 to determine if theuser 100 is authorized for use on the highlighted machine, and if so,which if any features of the highlighted machine should be activated foruser 100 based on the information stored on the user-identifier 200.

In other embodiments, the invention has dimensions that are suitable fora retail shelf, for example, on the confectionery shelf of a conveniencestore; however, the size dimensions of the units are variable and couldeasily be adapted to any environment whether it be retail or service.The system could also be freestanding in a public place.

In another embodiment, the system could be installed or made a part of ajukebox type machine, or a machine that otherwise dispenses music ormultimedia presentation. In such a system, the user-identifier would bepresented to a reader on the system. The user-specific information wouldbe sent to the processor. The processor would instruct the system to“dispense” or otherwise play a multimedia or music clip based on theuser-specific information.

In an alternate embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the invention could be adispensing or vending type system of the conventional type where thesystem is configured to accept payment including for examples currency,credit, or debit, and to dispense an item that is appropriate for theuser based on user-specific information, the item being paid for by theuser. A typical example of this would be a soda vending machine. In thisalternate embodiment, the system contains a currency accepting means900. The processor can contain and/or execute instructions to onlyactivate the system if currency accepting means indicates to the processthat the user 100 has paid for one of the items 508. For example, a usercould purchase a soda by inserting currency into the currency acceptor900 (the step represented as 6000), which would be communicated to theprocessor 400, represented by step 7000. In some embodiments, theprocessor 400 executes instructions to output a prompt to the user. In apreferred embodiment, the prompt would be a graphical display indicatingto the user to present his or her user-identifier 200. The system thenreads the user-specific information 210, 220, and 230, and optionally,the user's 100 immediately previous purchase choice, and instructs thedispensing means (508 for example) to dispense a separate item to theuser 100 based on the selected criteria for that user type and/or theuser's 100 selection.

Other embodiments of the invention include a system to distribute itemsto a member of a health club, where the distributed items are chosenbased on pre-selected athletic interests of the member, such asproviding tennis balls to a member who has previously indicated aninterest in playing tennis. Alternatively, the member of the athleticclub may have purchased a premium service. The information regarding thepremium service would be contained on the user-identifier and the systemwould dispense items based on the member's status and/or preferences.

Another embodiment comprises a system to distribute meals to schoolstudents based on pre-selected menu preferences.

Another embodiment comprises a system to dispense or distributepharmaceuticals or over the counter medications based on user-specificinformation contained or stored on the user-identifier 200.

In another embodiment, the user-identifier is used in conjunction withan automatic sports machine, such as for example, an automatic baseballor soccer machine, in which the level of difficulty of play is adjustedbased on the user's skill level, which is coded or stored onuser-identifier 200.

The skilled artisan will appreciate that the components of the systemcan be used with any vending machine, amusement machine, slot machine,or any device that dispenses an item or service.

In another embodiment, the system dispenses items based on saiduser-specific information and item-specific information in combination.In this embodiment, the system dispenses at least one item based oninformation associated with the items in at least one of the storagecompartments. This item-specific information includes, but is notlimited to, the number of items dispensed from at least one storagecompartment, the number of items remaining in at least one storagecompartment, or the weight of items remaining in at least one storagecompartment. This sample-specific information is conveyed to theprocessor, which in conjunction with the programmed instructions iscapable of translating the information into mechanical actions of thedispensing means as described above. In an example, items are dispensedto select users 100, and as the quantity of these items decreases, theselection criteria for users 100 to receive the items become morestringent so that some users no longer qualify to receive the item orreceive a substitute item.

Another embodiment of the invention is utilized in a gaming device. Agaming device according to the present invention incorporates all orsome of the elements described in the embodiments above, except that theprimary “item” being “dispensed” is a gaming feature. Therefore, in thisembodiment of the invention, the “dispense” is to be understood as theactivation of a gaming feature.

The user-identifier, reader, and processor are the same as thosedescribed above in FIG. 1 except that in this example system, theprocessor executes programmed instructions to translate theuser-specific information to activate at least one gaming feature basedon user-specific information stored on user-identifier and read byreader. Activated gaming feature is appropriate for user based onuser-associated information. Activation of gaming feature includesdeactivation of the gaming feature. The instructions, which can beencoded in software or embedded in a chip in the processor, are capableof validating whether the user-identifier is authorized for activity,determining history of use of the gaming system by user, and determiningif and which gaming feature 575 should be activated. In an embodiment,there is a means to maintain a log of information, including theuser-identifier and user's usage history, such as time, points scored,and what gaming feature was activated. For example, the means tomaintain information may be instructions in conjunction with computermemory means. Any processor known to those skilled in the art may beused in the present invention without departing from the scope of theinvention.

In FIG. 3, the system is shown in conjunction with a pinball machine.The machine's level of play difficulty or winner reward may be adjustedby user-specific information. A close-up view of the activated gamingfeature 575, which is a gate in this example, is shown. Gaming feature575 may be a feature that is not typically activated until usercompletes a sequence of flipper lane and ramp spinner switches. Byactivating gaming feature 575, the system provides easier play for a newor young user by blocking the outlane 577 where the pinball 576 could belost. In other examples, the gaming system provides free or extra playto a user based on user-specific information.

Another example of the system involves video games. In this example, auser of the system may present her card to a video game having thesystem incorporated therein. The user could then be awarded specificadvantages in the video game based on the user-specific informationcontained on her card.

In some embodiments, the gaming feature that is activated is a free gameon the system. The gaming feature could also be an adjustment of thethreshold necessary to reach a new level of the game, to have a featureactivated, or to obtain a re-play of the game.

In another embodiment, the claimed system is incorporated into aninteractive amusement system that generates unique entertainment forusers based on information stored on the user-identifier 200, includinguser-specific information and/or playfield information, where theplayfield is the area in which the user interacts with the user-specificdispensing system and features of the playfield, and where playfieldinformation includes, but is not limited to, the number or types ofitems or information previously dispensed to user 100. The playfield maybe either a physical, tangible area, or it may be a conceptual orvirtual area. The interactive amusement system according to the presentinvention incorporates all or some of the elements described in theembodiments above, except that the primary “item” being “dispensed” 508may be an item that can be used in the claimed interactive amusementsystem, activation or inactivation of a feature of the playfieldcomprising the interactive amusement system, or provision ofinformation, service(s), or a feature(s) that facilitate(s) play in theinteractive amusement system.

The interactive amusement system is comprised of an amusement area 700and at least one station 750 located therein. In an example, theamusement area 700 comprises a playfield 715 positioned between anentrance 705 and an exit 707. The playfield 715 is an amusement orentertainment area that has at least one feature such as walls, floors,doors 754, stairs 756, levels or stories 758, obstacles, tools for usein the interactive amusement system, or information or tools such as amap to assist a user 100 in the amusement system, for examples. Featuresmay also include a service, such as turning on or off lights or music,or providing video of another player or area in the playfield. In anexample, the user 100 may interact with playfield features.

In an embodiment, at least one feature of the playfield 715 is capableof being activated or inactivated based on information stored on theuser-identifier 200. In an example, activation or inactivation of afeature may give a user an advantage over other users, or may adjust thelevel of difficulty or challenge of the interactive amusement system.The playfield has at least one level 758 and may have multiple levels758 a, 758 b, 758 c. In a preferred embodiment, the features of theplayfield 715 can be configured or adjusted to create a plurality ofconfigurations so that, for example, repeat users are presented with anew or unique experience each time they participate in the interactiveamusement system. For example, the system can account for the user 100and determine whether to adjust or repeat the playfield experience, suchas by maintaining or eliminating features based on information stored onuser-identifier 200. In an example, the user's 100 play history(demographics, score, or playfield information), stored on theuser-identifier 200, may determine the configuration of the playfield715. For example, the playfield features may be adjusted to alter thelevel of difficulty of play so that the playfield 715 is easier for ayounger child or a less experienced user than for an older or moreexperienced user. FIG. 4, described in more detail below, shows anexample of an interactive amusement system in which the amusement area700 is a maze. In other examples, the interactive amusement system 700is an obstacle course, a building, a vessel, a jungle, or abattleground.

The interactive amusement system 700 further comprises at least onestation 750 located within the amusement area 700. Each station 750incorporates the claimed user-specific dispensing system, described indetail above. In an example, stations 750 are located at the entrance705 and the exit 707, and there is at least one station on the playfield715.

The user-identifier 200 is generally the same as that described above inFIG. 1 except that in this example system, the user-identifier 200comprises user-specific information 210, 220, 230 and/or playfieldinformation. As described above, in an example, the user-specificinformation is associated with a user 100, such as, for example,demographic information about the user, the user's play history, or theuser's scores in the interactive amusement system. In another example,user-specific information is associated with a group of users, such asfor example, demographic information about the group, including thenumber of members of the group, the gender(s) of the group members,and/or the age range of group members. User-specific information mayalso include user preferences, such as character roles that user 100prefers to play in the interactive amusement system 700. In yet anotherexample, the information is playfield information associated with theplayfield 715, including information about character roles of charactersin the interactive amusement system or about the configuration of theplayfield 715. In an example, the user 100 is assigned a character rolebased on the information about the user stored on the user-identifier200. An item that is appropriate for user 100 is dispensed based onuser-specific 210, 220, 230 and/or playfield information.

The reader 300 and instructions are the same as those described above inFIG. 1. In an example, instructions are capable of validating whetherthe user 100 is authorized for play in the interactive amusement systembased on the user's demographics or history of use or play in theinteractive amusement system, for examples. Instructions may alsodetermine which, if any, features of the playfield should be activated.The processor 400 executes programmed instructions to translate theuser-specific or playfield information to dispense an item 508 for usein the interactive amusement system and/or to activate at least onefeature based on information stored on the user-identifier 200.Activation of a playfield feature may include deactivation. For example,a door 754 may be locked when the user-identifier 200 indicates that theuser 100 is a skilled, experienced, or repeat user, to increase thelevel of difficulty to make the interactive amusement system morechallenging.

In an example, the instructions in conjunction with computer memorymeans also maintain a log of information, including the user-identifier200 and user's 100 usage history, such as time spent playing in theinteractive amusement system, points scored, what playfield feature wasactivated, or what items were dispensed. In an example, the user 100scans the user-identifier 200 at the exit 707 of the playfield so thatthe log of information can be recorded on the user-identifier 200 to bestored until the user returns to the interactive amusement system or forthe issuer or vendor records, marketing data, analysis, or otherpurpose. Any processor 400 known to those skilled in the art may be usedin the present invention without departing from the scope of theinvention.

The dispensing means may be the same as that described in FIG. 1. In anexample, there is at least one storage compartment 600 at each station750 which stores a plurality of items to dispense 508. The items 508 maybe for use in the interactive amusement system and/or they may be forthe user 100 to keep, such as for example memorabilia of the interactiveexperience. For another example, a key to unlock a secret passageway maybe dispensed based on information on the user-identifier 200. In analternate example, the dispensing means dispenses an activated orinactivated feature, such as a door 754 or passageway. For example, theactivated or dispensed feature may be one that is not usually dispenseduntil a user 100 achieved a minimal score. By dispensing the feature,the system provides easier play for a new, inexperienced, or young user,which may give the user advantage by enabling the user 100 to reach hisdestination faster or with fewer obstacles. Likewise, features can bedispensed to increase the level of challenge or to provide varied levelsof play or other combinations of play depending on the user-specificinformation and the issuer or vendor.

In a preferred example, the plurality of stations 750 are interlinked toaffect each other. For example, when an item is dispensed 508 by onedispensing means at one station 750, other stations are coded not todispense that same item to the same user. In another example, thestations 750 are interlinked to record a user's 100 score as she movesthrough the interactive amusement system. In this way, the user'shistory can be recorded as the user plays in the interactive amusementsystem to optionally change the features of the system during play, orthe history can be used to determine the playfield configuration thenext time the user plays in the interactive amusement system.

In an example, standardized scripts can be used, with gaps left in thescripts so that the actions of each user in the game of the interactiveamusement system can be inserted therein. The insertions can beprogrammed according to the information stored on the user-identifier200. In an example where there is a standard script for a “cop androbber scenario,” a first user 100 is assigned a role of a policeman anda second user 100 is assigned the role of a jewel thief. Each user's 100assigned role is stored on that user's user-identifier 200. The assignedrole may be selected by the user 100 or may be assigned to the user 100based on user's demographics. The information contained on theuser-identifier, including demographic information and information aboutthe assigned role is read by user-identifiers located at stations 750throughout the playfield 715 to determine the user's 100 access toinformation or to activate or deactivate playfield features.

The interactive amusement system may further comprise a means forrecording 780 a play session in the interactive amusement system, suchas a video camera that may be mounted in the playfield 715 or in aviewing area (not shown) for viewing the playfield 715. The recordingmay be DVDs, photographs, customized books, multi-media, etc. Recordingsmay be used in the interactive amusement system and/or recordings may bekept by the user 100 as memorabilia of the experience. In examples, therecording can be merged to place the user 100 into scenes with otherplayers. At any time during the adventure, these clips can be joined tocreate an existing artwork such as written books, pictures, movies,dramatic scripts, or video games.

In an alternate embodiment, additional users may participate remotely,such as for example through the internet or from a seated receptionarea. In an example, user-specific or playfield information, or acombination thereof, is used to create a scenario in the interactiveamusement system, and then remote users further control at least one ofthe features of the playfield 715 to control and decide the challenge(s)faced by users 100 in the playfield 715.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the interactive amusement system in whichplayfield 715 is a maze. There is an entrance 705 and an exit 707, and astation 750 is located at each to record, for example, when a user 100enters and exits the playfield 715. Stations 750 capable of readinguser-identifier 200 are located throughout the playfield 715, thestations 750 being linked to doorways 754, which are features of theplayfield 715. In an example, user-identifier 200 contains informationabout user 100 to indicate that user 100 is an experienced user, so thatdoorways 754 are closed, making it more difficult for user 100 totraverse through the maze. There is a recording means 780 mountedtherein to record play on the playfield 715.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show examples of the interactive amusement system in whichplayfield 715 is a multilevel playground. In FIG. 5, a station 750 islocated on each level 758 of the playfield 715. Stairs 756 connect thevarious levels 758. In an example, access to a tower 759 is grantedbased on information contained on the user-identifier 200. FIG. 6 alsoshows a multi-level playground that includes stations 750 throughout theplayfield 715, stairs 756, and a rope 755 for access from one level 758or platform to another. In an embodiment, each station 750 dispensestoys based on information contained on user-identifier 200.

FIG. 7 is an example of an embodiment of the invention incorporated intoan interactive amusement system where the playfield 715 is an outdoorsimulation area that may be used for training SWAT team members or forbattle reenactments, for examples. In an example, users 100 who achievecontrol of an area within the playfield receive ammunition or suppliesfrom the dispensing means 500 located at each station 750 positioned onthe playfield 715. In an example, the amount or type of ammunitiondispensed is based on user-specific information, playfield specificinformation, or a combination thereof. In this embodiment, playfieldfeatures include a cemetery 762, trees and shrubs 763, high grass 764,houses 765 and office buildings 766, bodies of water 767, and bridges768 and roadways 769.

In the examples shown in FIGS. 4-7, as described above, theuser-identifier 200 can adjust the level of difficulty of the playfieldmaze based on user-specific information 210, 220, 230, user's 100history or scores, or the playfield information, such as roles selectedby each user 100. In examples, the users 100 may be individuals or agroup of individuals, and there may be several groups competing againsteach other. As described above, the stations 750 on the playfield 715dispense items or services to each user or group of users based oninformation stored on the user-identifier 200. The stations may belinked, as described above, so that as the user or group of users movethrough the playfield 715 the dispensation of items or services is basedupon earlier performance in the playfield 715, for example, with asuperior team receiving bonus items or bonus points.

In an alternate embodiment, the invention could be configured to acceptpayment 900, as described in FIG. 2 above. In this alternate embodiment,the system may be configured to provide access to the playfield 715,dispense an item 508 for use in the playfield 715, and/or activate afeature on the playfield 715. In yet another embodiment, the describedinteractive amusement system may be configured for use with the retailadaptations described above. For example, it is established throughcross-marketing and use of visits and demographic variables. Forexample, the interactive amusement system encourages players and/orretail consumers to visit a retail location by, for example, awardingprizes at a retail dispenser or otherwise encouraging consumer trafficat the retail location.

In another embodiment, the user-identifier and dispensing system of thepresent invention is adapted to be a research or survey tool. User 100is presented with a survey or a set of questions to answer, and theuser's answers or feedback are stored on user-identifier 200 or are usedto create information about user 100 that is stored on user-identifier200 so that when user 100 presents user-identifier 200 to a reader 300items 508, samples, or services that are user-specific are dispensed touser 100. In an example, the survey or questions relate to a dispensingsystem that includes user-identifier 200, so that user's 100 responsesto the survey may be stored on user-identifier 200 to affect the itemsor services that are dispensed to user 100 in subsequent experiences orplay with the user-identifier and dispensing system, such as, forexample the gaming device or interactive amusement system. In anembodiment, the issuer or provider of the user-identifier 200 has accessto the user's feedback or survey answers so that the issuer can use theinformation for market research. In another embodiment, the user'sfeedback or survey answers may be used to update the information storedon the user-identifier 200 at least once or periodically.

In yet another embodiment, the user-identifier and dispensing system ofthe present invention can be combined with more than one of theembodiments described above, so that, for example, there is a systemthat includes a user-identifier and dispensing system in combinationwith a gaming device that is connected to an interactive amusementsystem.

While the foregoing has been set forth in considerable detail, it is tobe understood that the drawings and detailed embodiments are presentedfor elucidation and not limitation. Design variations, especially inmatters of shape, size and arrangements of parts may be made but arewithin the principles of the invention. Those skilled in the art willrealize that such changes or modifications of the invention orcombinations of elements, variations, equivalents or improvementstherein are still within the scope of the invention as defined in theappended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of dispensing at least oneuser-appropriate item, the method comprising: identifying a user basedon a user identification; associating user-specific information with theuser identification, wherein the user-specific information comprises auser characteristic known about the user, wherein the usercharacteristic comprises at least one of a user location, a biologicalprofile of the user, or a user role within a group; selecting at leastone type of item appropriate to the user based on the user-specificinformation; presenting the user with at least one choice of the atleast one type of item appropriate to the user based on theuser-specific information; selecting at least one specific item based onthe user's response to the presenting of at least one type of item;automatically dispensing the specific item selected; and wherein thedispensation consists of the selected specific item, and wherein theuser cannot select a different type of item for that dispensation afterthe presenting the user with the at least one choice of the at least onetype of item.
 2. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the user'sselection is effectuated by opening a storage device.
 3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein the storage device is a locker or a compartment.
 4. Themethod as recited in claim 1, further comprising associating the itemwith a service that is the manner in which the item is dispensed to theuser.
 5. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprisingassociating the item with a machine that is authorized for the user. 6.The method as recited in claim 1, further comprising associating theitem with a service that is dispensed to the user.
 7. The method asrecited in claim 1, wherein the item dispensed is based on at least oneresponse that the user provides to at least one prompt.
 8. The method asrecited in claim 1, wherein the user-appropriate item is a virtual item.9. The method as recited in claim 1, wherein the user characteristicknown about the user further includes at least one of user address, age,gender, demographics, personal characteristic, a role the user performs,member status, physical status, sporting team preference, athleticpreference, apparel preference, food preference, music preference,pre-selected preferences, interests, experience, skill level, health,feedback, legal authorization, usage history and profile.
 10. The methodas recited in claim 1, wherein the dispensing comprises operation of amachine.
 11. The method as recited in claim 1, further comprisingaccepting a payment from the user, and wherein the dispensing is furtherin response to the payment from the user.
 12. A method of dispensing atleast one user-appropriate item, the method comprising: identifying atleast one characteristic of a user based on input from the user, whereinthe characteristic comprises at least one of a user location, abiological profile of the user, or a user role within a group;determining at least one type of item appropriate to the user based onthe user-specific information; presenting the user with at least onechoice of the at least one type of item appropriate to the user based onthe user-specific information; selecting at least one specific itembased on the user's response to the presenting of the at least one typeof item; automatically dispensing the at least one specific itemselected; and wherein the dispensation consists of the selected specificitem, and wherein the user cannot select a different type of item forthat dispensation after the presenting the user with the at least onechoice of the at least one type of item.
 13. The method as recited inclaim 12, further comprising: presenting the user with at least oneprompt comprising a choice of the at least one type of item appropriateto the user; and wherein the item dispensed is based on at least oneresponse that the user provides to the at least one prompt.
 14. Themethod as recited in claim 13, further comprising: wherein the at leastone characteristic further includes at least one of user address, age,gender, demographics, personal characteristic, a role the user performs,member status, physical status, sporting team preference, athleticpreference, apparel preference, food preference, music preference,pre-selected preferences, interests, experience, skill level, health,feedback, legal authorization, usage history, and profile.
 15. Themethod as recited in claim 12, wherein the dispensing comprisesoperation of a machine.
 16. The method as recited in claim 12, whereinthe at least one characteristic comprises at least one of an age or agender of the user.
 17. The method as recited in claim 12, wherein theat least one characteristic comprises at least one of a physical status,a skill level, or a legal authorization of the user.
 18. A system todispense at least one virtual item, said system comprising: an inputdevice capable of accepting user-specific information to identify anauthorized user; at least one device capable to dispense a virtual item;a memory including coded instructions to interpret said authorization ofthe user and determine a user characteristic, wherein the usercharacteristic comprises at least one of a user location, a biologicalprofile of the user, or a user role within a group, and to select avirtual item for dispensing based on the user characteristic; aprocessor to send a signal based on the interpretation to activate thedevice for dispensation; and wherein the user cannot select an item forthat dispensation that does not include the selected item subsequent tothe processor selecting the item, and wherein the virtual item dispensedcomprises an item to be used in a playfield comprising a virtual area.19. The system as recited in claim 18, further comprising: the memoryfurther including coded instructions to determine at least one promptcomprising a choice of at least one virtual item determined in responseto the user characteristic; and wherein the virtual item selected fordispensing is further based on at least one response that the userprovides to the at least one prompt.
 20. The system as recited in claim18, further comprising: the memory further including coded instructionsto select a type of item appropriate to the user based on theuser-specific information, and to present the user with at least onechoice of at least one specific item appropriate to the user based onthe user-specific information and the selected type of item; wherein theprocessor sends the signal based on the user's response to the at leastone choice to automatically activate the device for dispensation.
 21. Amethod of dispensing at least one virtual item, the method comprising:identifying a user based on a user identification; associatinguser-specific information with the user identification, wherein theuser-specific information includes at least one type of data that is notbased on a user interaction with a system for dispensing a virtual item;determining at least one virtual item appropriate to the user based onthe user-specific information; dispensing the virtual item, wherein thevirtual item dispensed comprises an item to be used in a playfieldcomprising a virtual area of an interactive amusement system; andwherein the dispensation consists of the determined item, and whereinthe user cannot select an item for that dispensation subsequent to thedetermining the at least one virtual item.
 22. The method of claim 21,wherein the user-specific information further includes at least one typeof data that exists before the user interacts with the system.
 23. Themethod as recited in claim 21, further comprising: determining at leastone additional virtual item appropriate to the user based on theuser-specific information; presenting the user with a choice of thevirtual items appropriate to the user; and wherein the dispensing is inresponse to a selection of the choice of virtual items.
 24. The methodas recited in claim 21, wherein the user-specific information furtherincludes information that exists apart from interaction of the user withthe interactive amusement system.
 25. The method as recited in claim 21,wherein the dispensing comprises operation of a machine.
 26. A systemincorporated with an interactive device, the system comprising: an inputcomponent configured to accept user-specific information to identify anauthorized user; a user-specific component configured to determine atleast one characteristic of the user not based on the system; a displaycomponent configured to present a virtual area and a virtual item; amemory including coded instructions to interpret an authorization of theuser and the at least one characteristic, and to select the virtual itembased on the at least one characteristic of the user; wherein thedisplay component is further configured to present the selected virtualitem; wherein the presented virtual item consists of the selectedvirtual item, and wherein the user cannot select a different virtualitem for the display after the selection of the virtual item; whereinthe user comprises a first user; a processor configured to present thefirst user with a set of selected virtual items based on the firstuser's location, and to activate the presentation of the virtual itembased on an input of a second user from the set of selected virtualitems; and the first user cannot choose an item for that presentationthat does not include at least one of the selected virtual items. 27.The system of claim 26, wherein the virtual item comprises a multimediaclip.
 28. The system of claim 26, further comprising the memoryincluding coded instructions to record a score in response to the user'sinteraction in the virtual area.
 29. A method of dispensing at least oneuser-appropriate item, the method comprising: identifying at least onecharacteristic of a user based on input from the user, wherein thecharacteristic comprises at least one of a user location, a biologicalprofile of the user, or a user role within a group; determining at leastone type of item appropriate to the user based on the user-specificinformation; presenting the user with at least one choice of the atleast one type of item appropriate to the user based on theuser-specific information; selecting at least one specific item based onthe user's response to the presenting of the at least one type of item;automatically dispensing the at least one specific item selected; andwherein the dispensation consists of the selected specific item, andwherein the user cannot select a different type of item for thatdispensation after the presenting the user with the at least one choiceof the at least one type of item; wherein the item comprises a virtualitem, and wherein the dispensing comprises displaying the virtual item.30. The method as recited in claim 29, wherein (a) the user-specificinformation is a location of the user interacting with a system; (b) thevirtual item is useable within the system by the user; and (c)dispensing the virtual item is effected by displaying the virtual itemto the user and permitting interaction or service to the user with thevirtual item.
 31. A method of dispensing at least one user-appropriateitem, the method comprising: identifying at least one characteristic ofa user based on input from the user, wherein the characteristiccomprises at least one of a user location, a biological profile of theuser, or a user role within a group; determining at least one type ofitem appropriate to the user based on the user-specific information;presenting the user with at least one choice of the at least one type ofitem appropriate to the user based on the user-specific information;selecting at least one specific item based on the user's response to thepresenting of the at least one type of item; automatically dispensingthe at least one specific item selected; and wherein the dispensationconsists of the selected specific item, and wherein the user cannotselect a different type of item for that dispensation after thepresenting the user with the at least one choice of the at least onetype of item; wherein the user's individual characteristic comprises alocation that exists apart from a user interaction with a systemdispensing the item.
 32. A method of dispensing at least one virtualitem, the method comprising: identifying a user based on a useridentification; associating user-specific information with the useridentification, wherein the user-specific information includes at leastone type of data that is not based on a user interaction with a systemfor dispensing a virtual item; determining at least one virtual itemappropriate to the user based on the user-specific information;dispensing the virtual item; wherein the dispensation consists of thedetermined item, and wherein the user cannot select an item for thatdispensation subsequent to the determining the at least one virtualitem; wherein the user-specific information is a location of the userinteracting with a system; wherein the virtual item is useable withinthe system by the user; and the method further comprising dispensing thevirtual item is effected by displaying the virtual item to the user andpermitting interaction or service to the user with the virtual item.